Deep Learning
HALCON 18.11 Progress introduces two new deep learning functionalities: object detection and semantic segmentation. Combined with the preexisting deep-learning-based image classification, users now have a comprehensive set of deep learning functions at their disposal.
With semantic segmentation, trained defect classes can be localized with pixel accuracy. This allows users to, e.g., solve inspection tasks, which previously could not be realized, or only with significant programming effort.
Object detection localizes trained object classes and identifies them with a surrounding rectangle (bounding box). Object detection also separates instances of touching or partially overlapping objects. This is especially useful when objects need to be counted.
ECC 200 Code Reader Improvements
The overall recognition rate of the ECC 200 data code reader could be increased by 5 % (data based on our internal benchmark consisting of more than 3,700 images from various applications). In addition, the ECC 200 reader is now able to read codes with a disturbed quiet zone. Also, codes against complex backgrounds can now be read faster and more robustly.
Dictionaries
HALCON now includes a new data structure “dictionary”, which is an associative array that opens up various new ways to work with complex data. This enables developers to bundle arbitrary data into a single variable, making it easier to structure complex procedures. Dictionaries can also be read from and written to a file.
Handle Variable Inspect
HDevelop can now display detailed information on most important handle variables. This allows developers to easily inspect the current properties of complex data structures at a glance, which is extremely useful for debugging. Double-clicking a handle variable now returns all parameters associated with the handle and their current settings.
Support for 64-bit Arm-based platforms
HALCON now also supports 64-bit Arm®-based platforms out of the box. The Linux installer, which can be downloaded from the MVTec website, has been extended by the option to additionally install the components necessary for 64-bit Arm-based platforms.
Enhanced field bus communication
HALCON 18.11 introduces the Hilscher-cifX interface. This allows HALCON to communicate with almost all industrial field bus protocols via Hilscher PC cards. Among others, CC-Link, EtherCAT, EtherNet/IP, PROFIBUS, and PROFINET are supported.